Refining Citronella Oil (Cymbopogon Nardus L) by Utilizing Sunlight Using Solar Cells (Photovoltaics)

Abstract

Sunlight is one of the very abundant energy. In its use, many things can be applied such as converting the sunlight into electrical energy with the help of solar cells. In this research, 4 solar cells are used with a capacity of 1000 wp, so in a day they are able to produce 28,000 watts of electricity. This is a very potential electrical energy because it is commonly used to facilitate the process of refining essential oils. The results and the quality of oil obtained in refining research by utilizing sunlight using solar cells shows that the refining time of 6 hours is the best time for the refining process, while the 1 day drying time is better than 2 and 3 days. This is consistent with the oil yield obtained. The yield that has been produced is tested based on Indonesian National Standard (SNI) 2385-2006 through density and Bias Index tests.